I am a new Ipad3 owner (received it as a gift this weekend). I'm willing to give this thing a shot, although I must confess I'm a bit of an Apple hater (especially iphones / ipod touch) for a number of reasons.

My main gripe with the iPad is that it's little more than a glorified smartphone without the contract (in my eyes). For example, I'd much prefer an ultra lightweight notebook that would allow me to use Excel & Powerpoint extensively for work, etc.

I still haven't opened it, and I don't want to hurt any feelings by returning the gift unless I'm 100% sure I won't like it. So, what features / apps / anything do you think would sway me one way or another? I'm coming from a full sized laptop and an Android (gingerbread) phone if that helps. I don't mind getting flamed as long as there's some good facts in there as well.
tl;dr - apple hater got an ipad3 as a gift; should i keep it? why or why not?

Hey there, I used to be pretty anti Apple myself. Your concerns are more than justified, I would say make a list of what all your needs are and see if the iPad can handle those needs. Just remember the iPad is not meant to be a replacement for a computer. It is a mobile operating system so it will not do some of the things a pc will. That said it is an extremely convenient device that has its own set of great features. Most, if not all of your favorite apps you have on your droid will be available for IOS as well. I would say since it was a gift give it a shot and see what you think. One of the great things about IOS devices and especially the iPad is that they hold their value very well. So if you absolutely cannot find a use for it you can sell it for a very good price, and since it was a gift no harm no foul I guess. It is hard to not like something that someone gave you, totally understandable.

The IPad Forum is a community of members from all walks of life and from all over the world coming together to share our experiences and to help each other learn about this wonderful piece of technology the Ipad. There is a wealth of information already here in the many threads we have so doing some searches will answer most of the questions you have. If then you cannot find the answer you are seeking then by all means post your question. There are many friendly and informed members here only too willing to help you.

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